Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply to The New York State Administrative Law Judges Association to become an ALJ or hearing officer?

No. We’re similar to a bar association. We are not an agency or a clearinghouse. We do not issue certifications for becoming ALJs or hearing officers. We do not hire ALJs/Hearing Officers.

No. We’re similar to a bar association. We are not an agency or a clearinghouse. We do not issue certifications for becoming ALJs or hearing officers. We do not hire ALJs/Hearing Officers.

Does New York have a central hearing office?

While many states do have a centralized hearing office, New York does not.

While many states do have a centralized hearing office, New York does not.

I am interested in becoming an ALJ. What is the process?

Many, though not all, ALJs working for an agency were once attorneys with that agency. But it’s not a requirement. For example, in order to apply for many (though not all) NYS agency positions, you need to contact the NYS Department of Civil Service and take the Legal Specialties exam. Local agencies have their own requirements and you’ll need to check with the agency you’re interested in working for to find out what their process is.

Many, though not all, ALJs working for an agency were once attorneys with that agency. But it’s not a requirement. For example, in order to apply for many (though not all) NYS agency positions, you need to contact the NYS Department of Civil Service and take the Legal Specialties exam. Local agencies have their own requirements and you’ll need to check with the agency you’re interested in working for to find out what their process is.

Is there a central place where ALJ job openings are posted?

No, there is no central repository for job openings. For example, while some NYS positions go through Civil Service, many do not and are posted only by the agency looking to hire.

No, there is no central repository for job openings. For example, while some NYS positions go through Civil Service, many do not and are posted only by the agency looking to hire.

Can I become a member of NYSALJA, even if I'm not an ALJ or hearing officer?

Membership in NYSALJA is open to current or former administrative law judges and hearing officers in New York and others, including lawyers, who work in the administrative law field.

Membership in NYSALJA is open to current or former administrative law judges and hearing officers in New York and others, including lawyers, who work in the administrative law field.